Applying to drive for Southeastern?
Southeastern operates commuter and regional services across London, Kent, and East Sussex. Its driver selection process includes the OPC psychometric test battery — the Vigilance Test (WAFV) and ATAVT being among the most critical components.
London, Kent & parts of East Sussex
The Southeastern OPC Assessment
Southeastern routes include some of the UK's most densely scheduled commuter services, running into London Bridge, Cannon Street, Charing Cross, and Victoria. Drivers need sharp situational awareness at all times. The ATAVT specifically measures the ability to extract information from a brief visual scene — exactly the skill needed at level crossings and station approaches.
The 30-minute Vigilance Test rewards patience and sustained focus. Many candidates find it deceptively hard — the first ten minutes feel manageable, but maintaining the same alertness level for the full half-hour requires practice. Doing several complete runs before your assessment day is the most effective preparation.
Southeastern holds its OPC assessments at dedicated assessment centres. The tests are computer-based and conducted under controlled conditions. Knowing the interface and timing in advance removes a significant source of test-day anxiety.
What you'll practice
Four practice tests included
Vigilance Test
A grey square sits in the centre of the screen. Watch it for 30 minutes and press Space the moment it turns black. Tests sustained attention — a core skill for train drivers.
- ✓30-minute full-length simulation
- ✓Random stimulus intervals
- ✓Scored on hits, misses & reaction time
ATAVT
A traffic scene flashes for 1 second. Identify which elements you saw — lights, vehicles, pedestrians, signs, bicycles, motorcycles. Tests perceptual speed and scene awareness.
- ✓20 scenes per session
- ✓Brief flash per scene
- ✓Per-element identification scoring
TRP1 — Rules & Procedures
Read a set of train operating rules for 5 minutes, then answer 18 questions from memory in 15 minutes. Tests comprehension and rule retention under time pressure.
- ✓6 different question sets
- ✓18 questions per session
- ✓Timed reading & recall phases
Group Bourdon
A printable concentration test. Scan rows of dot groups and mark every group containing exactly four dots. Tests sustained concentration and systematic accuracy.
- ✓Randomly generated each time
- ✓Print-at-home format
- ✓Answer key included on page 2
FAQ
Common questions
Does Southeastern offer trainee train driver roles?
Yes. Southeastern periodically recruits trainee train drivers (TTDs) with no prior driving experience. These roles include full training and the OPC assessment is a mandatory step in the selection process.
Which tests are included in the OPC battery?
The OPC (Occupational Personality and Cognitive) battery includes the Vigilance Test (WAFV), ATAVT, Group Bourdon, and several other assessments. The exact combination varies slightly by operator but all are governed by RSSB standard RIS-3751-TOM.
Is this the same as the real test?
Our tests match the format and parameters of the real OPC assessment — 30 minutes for the Vigilance test, brief flashes for the ATAVT. No practice site can replicate the exact proprietary software, but the format is calibrated to match.
What happens after I pay?
You get instant access to all four tests with unlimited attempts. Access never expires.
Can I get a refund?
If you're not happy with the product, contact us within 7 days and we'll make it right — either by resolving the issue or issuing a full refund.
Free preparation guides
How to Become a Train Driver in the UK: The Complete Guide
9 min read
How to Pass the UK Train Driver Vigilance Test (WAFV)
6 min read
How to Pass the Train Driver ATAVT Test
6 min read
Group Bourdon Test: How It Works and How to Score Higher
5 min read
UK Train Driver OPC Assessment: A Complete Guide
7 min read
How to Pass the TRP1 Test: Rules & Procedures Guide
6 min read
What Happens If You Fail the OPC Psychometric Test?
5 min read
How Hard Is the Train Driver Psychometric Test?
6 min read
Train Driver Competency Interview Questions: Full Guide
8 min read
Avanti West Coast Train Driver: Application, OPC Test & What to Expect
8 min read
Train Driver Salary UK 2026: What You'll Actually Earn
8 min read
What to Expect on Your Train Driver Assessment Day
9 min read
Train Driver Medical Requirements UK: The Complete Guide
10 min read
Northern Trains Train Driver Application: Tests, Assessment & How to Prepare
8 min read
LNER Train Driver Application: Process, OPC Test & What to Expect
8 min read
South Western Railway Train Driver Application: Process, Tests & Salary
8 min read
Greater Anglia Train Driver Application: Process, OPC Tests & Salary
8 min read
ScotRail Train Driver Application: Process, OPC Tests & What to Expect
8 min read